What are the primary causes and risk factors for developing emphysema?

The primary causes and risk factors for developing emphysema include:

Primary Causes:

1. Smoking: Long-term cigarette smoking is the leading cause of emphysema.
2. Genetic deficiency: Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency, a rare genetic disorder.
3. Air pollution: Long-term exposure to pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.